Dear Friends,
On 1 August I reflected on the theme of ‘investment’ with you, based on the parable of the rich fool. I pondered what this looked like through the lens of our collaborative family fun mornings ‘Summer Vibes’ with Louise from Oasis.
At that first summer session we welcomed 48 children and their parents/carers.
Yesterday we did another, ‘Hello Autumn’. This time we welcomed 102 children and their parents/carers. Pause for a moment to let that sink in. Wow.
Jesus tells us time and time again ‘you are blessed’
This is not a reward for us having done something worthy – that’s the old way of thinking. Jesus’ sacrifice and love is what has blessed us and made us fit for his purpose, and through this gift he would have us make a difference in this world.
His blessing helps us to love our neighbour. His blessing helps us to be counter cultural. To welcome and build bridges when society seems more invested in building walls.
So dear reader, after the joy I experienced at yesterday’s family event, I wonder how else his blessing is going to manifest itself. Does the bridge building excite you? What do you notice? I certainly feel encouraged and indeed blessed. I wonder what’s next?
Love
Julia,
Julia Jones, Churchwarden